⏱️ Subathon Timer
A countdown/count-up timer that extends based on subscriptions, bits, Juice, and tips—perfect for subathon events.
Overview
The Subathon Timer adds time to your stream based on viewer support:
- Subscriptions add time
- Bits add time
- Juice donations add time
- Tips/donations add time
Run extended streams powered by your community!
How It Works
- Start with an initial time
- Timer counts down
- Events add more time
- Stream continues as long as time remains
- Optional maximum cap to prevent infinite streams
Settings
Timer Settings
| Setting | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Time (Hours) | Starting hours on the clock | 0 |
| Sub Increment (Minutes) | Minutes added per sub | 5 |
| Bit Increment (Minutes) | Minutes added per 100 bits | 1 |
| Juice Increment (Minutes) | Minutes added per 100 Juice | 1 |
| Tip Increment (Minutes) | Minutes added per $1 | 5 |
| Max Stream (Hours) | Maximum time cap (0 = no cap) | 0 |
| Timer Format | Display format | Colon |
| Add Outline | Text outline for visibility | On |
Setup Instructions
Step 1: Configure the Timer
- Go to Utilities → Subathon Timer in your dashboard
- Set your initial time
- Configure increment amounts for each event type
- Set a maximum if desired
Step 2: Add Overlay to OBS
- Copy the Subathon Timer overlay URL
- In OBS, add a Browser Source
- Paste the URL
- Set dimensions: 600 x 200 (adjust as needed)
- Position prominently on screen
Step 3: Start Your Subathon
- Go live and announce the subathon
- Timer begins counting down
- Viewer actions add time
- Stream until the timer hits zero!
Timer Formats
| Format | Example |
|---|---|
| Colon | 02:30:45 |
| Chrono | 2h 30m 45s |
Choose the format that matches your style.
Increment Calculations
Subscriptions
Each subscription adds your configured minutes:
- Tier 1: 1x increment
- Tier 2: 2x increment (platform dependent)
- Tier 3: 3x increment (platform dependent)
Bits (Twitch)
Time added per 100 bits:
- 100 bits = 1x your bit increment
- 500 bits = 5x your bit increment
Juice
Time added per 100 Juice:
- Works on all platforms
- Great for multi-platform subathons
Tips/Donations
Time added per $1:
- $5 tip = 5x your tip increment
- Works with external donation platforms if integrated
Maximum Cap
Setting a Max Stream Hours prevents infinite streams:
- 0 = No cap (can run forever)
- Set a number = Timer won't exceed that amount
- Useful for healthy streaming limits
Example: Max 24 hours
- Even with lots of support, timer won't exceed 24 hours
- Protects your health and sanity!
Running a Successful Subathon
Before the Event
- Plan Your Duration: How long are you willing to stream?
- Set Increments: Balance excitement with sustainability
- Prepare Content: Have enough activities planned
- Health Plan: Schedule breaks, food, sleep
- Promote: Build hype before starting
During the Event
- Stay Engaged: Keep energy up
- Acknowledge Support: Thank contributors
- Take Breaks: Yes, even during a subathon
- Vary Content: Switch games, activities
- Monitor Health: Don't overdo it
After the Event
- Thank Everyone: Show appreciation
- Share Stats: Total time, supporters
- Rest: You earned it!
Troubleshooting
Timer Not Updating
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Not adding time | Check platform connections |
| Wrong increments | Verify increment settings |
| Stuck | Refresh the overlay |
Display Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Can't see timer | Check OBS browser source |
| Hard to read | Enable outline option |
| Wrong format | Change timer format setting |
Connection Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Events not registering | Check platform OAuth |
| Juice not adding | Verify Citrus connection |
Best Practices
- Set Reasonable Goals: Don't overcommit
- Have Backup Plans: What if it goes longer than expected?
- Communicate Rules: Let viewers know how it works
- Balance Increments: Too much = eternal stream, too little = no engagement
- Take Care of Yourself: Streams shouldn't endanger your health
FAQ
Q: Can I manually add or remove time? A: Currently through dashboard settings; manual controls coming soon.
Q: Does the timer save if I crash? A: Timer state is saved; you can resume.
Q: Can I pause the timer? A: Pause feature coming soon.
Q: What happens at zero? A: Timer stops at zero; you decide when to end.
Q: Do gift subs count? A: Yes, each gifted sub adds time.
Q: Can I use this for non-subathons? A: Yes! Use it for any timed event.